Murchison Falls National Park

Spanning the districts of Buliisa, Nwoya, Kiryandongo, and Masindi, Murchison Falls National Park is located in northwest Uganda.  Uganda’s largest national park covers an area of 3893 sq. km (1503 sq. km) and is bisected by the Victoria Nile.

Two dry seasons – from June to September and from December to February – are the best time to visit this park.  The dry conditions make wildlife easier to spot, particularly where water is present.  Additionally, the roads and trails are easier to navigate.

Murchison Falls National Park is accessible by road and by air.  Driving from the capital, Kampala, in a comfortable FlashMc Tours vehicle, the drive takes 5-6 hours.  Scheduled flights depart both Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airfield (Kampala) for various airstrips in or near to the park.

Yes.  As a major tourist attraction, this well-managed park is safe to visit.  Follow the instructions of guides and park authorities.  Take standard travel precautions like securing valuables and not venturing out alone after dark.  Always be cautious and maintain a respectful distance around wild animals.

Four of the Big 5 (lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo) can be seen in the park.  Giraffes, Uganda kobs, hippos, and various other antelope are plentiful.  Bird enthusiasts are treated to a variety of some 450 different species, including shoebill storks and the gorgeous grey crowned crane.

Yes.  The most distinctive of these is the Rothschild’s giraffe.  Other vulnerable species like lions, chimpanzees and elephants also receive protection within the park.

A variety of habitats ranging from grasslands to woodlands, riverine forests to swamps create a varied landscape.  The Victoria Nile which bisects the park, crashes over the spectacular 45-meter (147-feet) Murchison Falls.

Activities in Murchison Falls National Park include game drives, nature walks, birdwatching, fishing, boat trips and chimpanzee trekking.

Yes.  Family-friendly activities and programs specifically for children are available at some of the lodges and camps in and near to the park.

Yes.  Trained guides, such as those provided by FlashMc Tours, bring to life the fascinating interconnectedness of the park’s various habitats.  Tours of local communities can also be arranged.

The diverse wildlife, habitats and geographic features make Murchison Falls National Park a worthy destination for photographers.  Guides are on hand to help secure some fantastic images.

Game drives are conducted in the early morning and late afternoon, when wildlife is more active.  After breakfast, guests can relax or join an optional activity like a cultural tour.  After dinner, some camps offer night drives to view nocturnal species.

Accommodation in and around Murchison Falls National Park varies from tented bush camps to luxurious, all-inclusive lodges.  The range caters to various budgets, comfort levels and preferences.  FlashMc Tours use only approved eco-friendly establishments.

Park facilities include viewpoints, picnic sites and information centers.  Lodges and camps typically have dining rooms, lounges, gift shops and swimming pools.  Luxury properties may offer spa treatments and fitness centers.

Lion conservation is heavily emphasized at Murchison Falls National Park, as are measures to combat poaching.  Over and above these, the focus is on protecting the environment and its inhabitants and involving the adjacent communities in ensuring the park’s viability for the betterment of these communities. 

By visiting the park and staying in eco-friendly lodges and camps.  There are conservation programs where visitors can make direct contributions, while visits to neighboring communities foster goodwill and stimulate the economy.  While visiting, respect the rules of the park, be waste conscious and don’t damage the environment.

Yes.  Efforts to address threats to the viability of the national park are underway.  These revolve around community engagement, law enforcement and sustainable tourism.  By employing locally and putting tourism revenue to work in the communities, the long-term sustainability of the park is being ensured.

Yes.  One place of particular interest is Pakuba Lodge which was once a favorite retreat of former Ugandan president, Idi Amin.  Now fallen to ruins, the resident wildlife symbolizes the restorative powers of nature and national healing.

The area around Murchison Falls National Park has a rich history, with local tribes having inhabited the region for centuries. The falls themselves are named after Sir Roderick Murchison, but to the local people, they are known as Kabalega Falls, named after the famous Omukama (King) of Bunyoro, who resisted British colonization.

Yes.  Your FlashMc Tours guide can facilitate visits to local villages and community projects, allowing visitors to gain a better understanding of traditional life and the modern challenges the community is addressing.

Visitors to Murchison Falls National Park are advised to pack lightweight, breathable and neutral colored clothing that can be worn in layers to allow for changes in temperature.  Sun protection is vital, so pack sunglasses, sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.  Don’t forget your camera and binoculars or prescription medication and a small first-aid kit.  For comfort, bring bug spray, comfortable walking shoes and a water bottle.

Park entry fees are included in your package price when you book a tour with FlashMc Tours.

Rules and regulations are in place for the protection of both visitors and wildlife at Murchison Falls National Park.  Game drive vehicles may not leave the road and wildlife should not be unnecessarily disturbed, fed, or harmed.  Littering, making fires and excessive noise are prohibited.  Please respect the local communities and their customs.